Whether you’re a car owner or technician, there are so many things to admire about the Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine. From its great mileage to longevity, affordable parts and cost of maintenance, low gas consumption, and optimal performance, the engine is an asset to maintain.
Yet, you’ll have to face a few issues, some of which are common engine problems. Others arise from the motor’s design flaws.
The 3 most common Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine problems are:
- Leaky Head Gasket
- Carbon Build-Up
- GDI Output Loss
The Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine was designed based on the 2.0L Ecoboost Gen 2 engine. This engine was developed in a factory in Valencia, Spain, and is also known as the “stroker”. As with all engines, the Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine is not without mechanical faults and problems.
Some of these issues include failed or leaky head gasket, cooling faults or overheating loss of GDI engine power, and an excessive buildup of carbon on the back of the intake valve.
These problems manifest in various ways such as excessive cooling fluid consumption, bad fires under load, engine overheating, a decrease in performance, and an increase in fuel consumption.
In this article, we will discuss some of the common problems associated with the Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine.
Table Of Contents
What Are The Most Common Ford 2.3 Ecoboost Issues?
1. Leaky Head Gasket
This is probably the most common problem associated with this engine. Primarily, the head gasket is built into the engine to ensure that the coolant and oil remain in their channels without overlapping or mixing.
You’ll notice this problem from the start when some white exhaust smoke comes out of the exhaust. Some other time, you will observe unusual consumption of coolant.
Symptoms Of Leaky Gasket Head
Some symptoms or problems resulting from a failed gasket are below:
- Poor Starts: If the engine fails in such a manner that the compressed air or fuel is allowed to escape, there is a reduction in the compression of that cylinder. This results in a frictional running engine and a sharp decrease in engine power.
- Oil Contamination: This is often detected by a milky sludge on the bottom of the dipstick or oil filler cap, caused by the oil mixing with water. This issue can also be caused by condensation, which is a consequence of regular short journeys which does not allow the engine oil to steam properly to evaporate off the water.
- Smoking: This occurs when engine oil leaks past a faulty head gasket. A blue-like smoke is emitted from the exhaust pipe as it is burnt during the combustion process. This could lead to the “poisoning” of the catalytic converter.
- External Leaks: When there is a failure of the head gasket between the oilway and the waterway, the likely result is an oil leak or coolant leak.
How To Prevent And Repair Head Gasket
It is said that prevention is better than cure. This also applies to head gaskets and most vehicle components. The most common cause of head gasket failures is overheating, hence the best way to protect your head gasket is to keep the cooling system in good condition.
You must also ensure that the system has no leaks, the radiator is working smoothly, the coolant is topped up to a substantial level, the electric fans are working optimally, and the thermostat opens at the right level. It is also advisable to change the coolant regularly to maintain its anti-corrosion properties.
The cylinder head must first be removed along with the old head gasket. Then the cylinder block and cylinder head meet surfaces must be cleaned thoroughly before a new cylinder head and head gasket can be refitted. It is also necessary to flush the coolant system to prevent blockages.
2. Carbon Build-up
This is more of an extra maintenance cost than a problem. But then, it should given great attention to prolong the life of your 2.3L Ecoboost engine. A feature of the 2.3 Ecoboost engine is that it uses the direct-injection (DI) technology instead of the port-injection technology (PI).
The direct fuel injection system allows fuel to move directly into the cylinder; whereas port injection technology sprays fuel into the intake ports, allowing it to purify and get rid of fuel deposits before they get into the cylinder of fuel intake valves. As a result of this, there is little or no fuel flowing over the intake valves for cleaning.
This will lead to carbon deposits sticking to the valves which eventually results in a build-up of carbon. Some of the causes of carbon build-up are inferior fuels, road conditions, high gear speed, incomplete combustion, etc.
It is instructive to note that when you store up gas for long periods in your tank, you risk reducing the performance of the engine. Old gasoline above 30 days should be removed and replaced with a new one.
There are multiple causes of carbon build-up in your Ford 2.3 engine. For instance, a dirty filter can be responsible. The function of the air filter is to remove debris, dirt, or foreign substances from the air before they make their way into the engine.
The filter becomes clogged due to the amount of debris it stores and will need to be changed to allow a sufficient amount of air into the engine.
In addition, if the gas vent is clogged, the fuel deposits can accumulate. Every vehicle has a vent that also functions as the fuel tank ventilator. To function properly and supply enough fuel to the carburetor, the vent must be open and void of debris.
Another Cause Is Failing Of Spark Plugs
The engine could vibrate as a result of a worn-out spark plug which could lead to the car shaking uncontrollably.
A faulty spark plug can prevent the fuel-air mixture from getting ignited in the cylinders, eventually leading to a misfiring. The solution here would be to replace the spark plug with a new one.
You may also attribute carbon build-up to damaged engine mounts. Damage to any of the motor mounts can lead to slight or excess vibrations of the car engine when idle or when stopped.
Motor mounts are compartments of the car engine that absorb road shocks and vibrations. The solution to this issue is to call an experienced and professional automobile mechanic to replace the faulty mounts.
Symptoms Of Carbon Build-Up
The following are symptoms of carbon build-up in 2.3 Ecoboost engine:
- The Engine Will Not Run Smoothly: If after the ignition of the vehicle, the engine does not run smoothly, it implies that the ignition system and the spark plugs are functioning but there is a defect in the fuel system or air intake.
- The Engine Will Vibrate: It is almost normal for your vehicle engine to vibrate at optimum levels during its operation. The operations of some components in the car could lead to slight vibrations.
Transmission gear, rotational motion of the crankshaft, and some other important components in the car engine could cause vibrations. In cases where the vibrations are excess and result in rattling noises. Some of these are the causes of engine vibration. - Loose Hoses: A disconnection in the hoses of your engine could lead to vibrations in your car engine. These hoses carry a radiator coolant, air-fuel mixture, vacuum, etc. A failure in any of the hoses could result in a shortage of these integral requirements. Reattaching the disconnected hoses could solve the problem.
- Inappropriate Fuel Intake Adjustments: If there is no proper adjustment and calibration of the fuel intake system, slight vibrations could be produced in the car engine. You can rectify this problem by simply adjusting the idle speed on the carburetor and using an appropriate solution to clean the fuel intake system.
- Car Jerking: This is also a very serious issue in the car engine. If your car jerks during its acceleration, chances are that there are issues with your spark plugs or the catalytic converter.
It is quite unsafe to drive your car when it is jerking because you will struggle to get good control of the car and someone driving behind you could as well easily hit you. Some causes of car jerking in engines include.
How To Fix Carbon Build-Up Issues
- Appropriate use of oil is often recommended. Some of the lubricants out there do not meet SAE specs and if you use them in your car, they may end up depositing carbon in the cylinder, thereby clogging smooth airflow.
- Periodically rev the engine until the tachometer is ready on the redline.
- For advanced scenarios, take your car to a trusted mechanic for a total engine rebuild.
How To Prevent Carbon Build-Up
- Regularly do carbon cleaning services.
- Get regular oil changes.
- Use the proper fuel for your vehicle.
3. GDI Output Loss
The Ford 2.3 Ecoboost engine problems also come in the form of GDI output loss. Gasoline direct injector systems (GDI) are the new toys on the shelf.
They operate by injecting fuel at high pressure into the combustion chamber. These types of injectors are far more precise and effective than fuel-injector systems or carburetors.
The gasoline direct injector system results in cooler temperatures and complete combustion in the cylinder. This implies that the GDI technology is quite efficient in power and fuel consumption.
However, even with all its amazing qualities, the GDI technology has created a whole set of unique challenges. The issue relating to GDI output loss is caused by a range of defects, including clogged fuel systems and carbon build-up.
Symptoms Of Loss Pf Power
- Reduced Efficiency: The efficiency of the back may be brought to its knees once the engine loses its GDI output. The engine response will lapse while mileage will also be reduced.
- High Fuel Consumption: You may also notice that you visit the gas station more often than usual. This will cause extra pressure on your budget.
- Airflow Restriction: Airflow restriction is a major issue that affects the cylinder. The intake valve and exhaust valve works closely with the cylinder such that as the air mixes with fuel, compression will occur before a stroke is completed in the combustion chamber. However, when GDI output is lost, air will not flow smoothly.
- Engine Stalling: A loss of power in your engine results in engine stalling. Engine stalling occurs when the vehicle suddenly stops and ceases to work.
How To Fix GDI Engine Problems
Fixing GDI engine problems is not quite an easy task. In this case, it is advisable to develop and practice good maintenance habits.
How To Prevent GDI Engine Problems
- Avoid build-up of carbon at the valves.
- Change the oil at regular intervals.
- Replace spark plugs at recommended intervals.
- Use a proper fuel system cleaner to maintain the GDI engine system.
- Walnut blasting.
FAQs
1. How Do I Check The Oil Of My Ford 2.3L Ecoboost Engine?
Most car owners are aware of the importance of checking the engine oil. However, only a few are aware of the steps to follow.
These are the following steps to undertake when checking the engine oil:
- Make sure the car is on level ground.
- Turn on the parking brake and put the transition to neutral or park.
- Run the engine until it gets to a normal operating temperature.
- Switch off the engine until the oil drains into the oil pan. Do not check the oil level too soon after switching off the engine so you don’t make inaccurate measurements.
- Remove the hood.
- Use a lint-free cloth to wipe the dipstick while it is still in.
- Check the oil level now.
- Repeat the earlier process.
- In between the minimum and maximum marks lies the right oil level.
- If the oil level is below the minimum level, ensure you add some more oil.
2. How Much Does Walnut Blasting Cost?
Walnut blasting is one of the most effective ways of clearing carbon build-up. The cost of walnut blasting ranges from $300 to around $600. The cost you incur depends on the shop you visit.
3. What Other Symptoms Do Ford 2.3 Ecoboost Indicate?
There are other issues your Ford 2.3 Ecoboost engine may indicate to signal one of two things isn’t right with the system.
You will need to pay attention to these issues as soon as possible to avoid escalation:
- Dirty Fuel Injectors: The fuel injectors are designed to maintain a constant stream of fuel flowing into your engine. When they are dirty, they won’t be able to supply the fuel your engine needs quickly enough, eventually causing misfiring and jerking of the car.
- Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensors: The car engine needs more than just fuel to operate. It needs a good supply of air to mix with the fuel to keep the pistons moving. When the sensors are faulty, the consequent lack of air supply will lead to periodic jerks of the engine.
- Worn-Out/Faulty Accelerator Cables: The accelerator cable in your vehicle sits between your gas pedal and the throttle. The cable can wear out over time and sometimes break. This ultimately could lead to your car taking longer periods to accelerate and jerking as it builds momentum.
- Clogged Catalytic Converter: This is in place to reduce emissions produced by the car engine. In some cases, the air-fuel mixtures that move through the converter could cause clogging and eventually periodic jerks.
Final Thoughts
The Ford 2.3L Ecoboost engine is turning out to be a reliable engine with optimum performance for its surprisingly small 4 cylinder design.
To date, there are not any major evident issues with the engine. Overheating of the turbo engine is one of the common Ford 2.3 Ecoboost problems that you should attend to without delay.
Walnut blasting, replacement of spark plugs, and regular change of oils are recommended for proper maintenance.
Overall, EcoBoost 2.3 is a great engine and should live up to 250,000+ miles before it requires replacement. No doubt, all vehicle engines will have challenges at some point but expect the Ford Ecoboost 2.3 to be a very reliable engine.